Saint Simeon Stylites

Biography

Saint Simeon Stylites, also known as Simeon Stylites the Elder, was a renowned ascetic and pillar-dwelling saint who lived in the 5th century. Born around 390 in Cilicia, near Syria, he was the son of a poor shepherd and began his life working as a shepherd in his youth. At the age of 13, Simeon Stylites aspired to become a monk. However, his extreme self-imposed penances and dedication to the ascetic life made it difficult for him to find acceptance in any monastery. Despite his devoutness and yearning for a spiritual community, various religious communities turned him away due to their concerns regarding his severe practices. Feeling discouraged by the gossip and arguments that often arose around his chosen way of life, Simeon Stylites decided to live as a hermit on top of a column. This unique and astonishing lifestyle choice attracted numerous individuals who gathered to watch him and pray alongside him. Simeon Stylites occasionally used these gatherings as an opportunity to preach, sharing his spiritual insights and teachings with those who looked up to him. His solitary life on the pillar soon inspired a movement of pillar-living among Eastern hermits. Numerous people, seeking a similar connection to God, began to emulate his way of life by living atop columns or pillars themselves. This movement became known as "stylitism," with Simeon Stylites serving as its most prominent example. Throughout his life, Simeon Stylites adhered to rigorous ascetic practices, willingly enduring extreme physical hardships and self-imposed penances. Despite the challenging nature of his chosen path, he became widely respected and venerated as a holy figure. People from all walks of life sought his counsel and blessings, believing he possessed a special closeness to God. Simeon Stylites remained on his pillar for an extended period, becoming something of a religious spectacle. He managed to inspire and impact the lives of countless individuals who witnessed his unwavering dedication to the ascetic life. It is said that even Emperor Theodosius II sought Simeon's advice in various matters. Saint Simeon Stylites passed away around 459 of natural causes, after spending nearly four decades atop his pillar. His death marked the end of a remarkable life, lived in complete devotion to God and service to others. Although Simeon Stylites was canonized as a saint before the official establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, he continues to be venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church. Today, Saint Simeon Stylites is regarded as the patron saint of shepherds, reflecting his humble origins and early profession as a shepherd. His feast day is celebrated on the 27th of July, with some calendars also recognizing the 5th of January or the 1st of September as alternate days to honor his memory. Saint Simeon Stylites stands as an enduring example of unwavering faith, ascetic devotion, and inspiration for those seeking a deeper spiritual connection with the divine. His life continues to exemplify the transformative power and dedication that individuals can achieve in their pursuit of holiness.